Oklahoma State University has nominated two standout athletes, Billah Jepkirui from Cowgirl cross country and track, and Preston Stout from Cowboy golf, for the 2026 Big 12 Athlete of the Year award. Stout finished the season as the nation's top male collegiate golfer, making headlines with a hole-18 birdie that led to a semifinal appearance in which they lost to Auburn, the eventual national champion. Jepkirui, a senior, earned All-American honors after impressive finishes in NCAA championships, solidifying her status as one of the top runners in the nation. The Big 12 will announce winners on Thursday, with nominees required to be in good academic standing and having participated in a league-sponsored sport.

By the Numbers
  • Preston Stout achieved five wins last season, a program record for juniors, just three short of the school record of 11 career wins.
  • Billah Jepkirui recorded the fourth-fastest mile in NCAA history and finished eighth in the 3,000 meters at the Indoor NCAA Championships.
State of Play
  • The nominees from other Big 12 schools have been announced, showcasing a competitive field.
  • Upcoming announcements will unveil additional nominees from schools that haven’t yet revealed their athletes.
What's Next

The anticipation builds as the Big 12 prepares to announce the winners of the Athlete of the Year awards this Thursday, with potential implications for the visibility of both athletes on a larger scale.

Bottom Line

Oklahoma State's nominations highlight the impressive achievements of Stout and Jepkirui, reinforcing the university's strength in athletics and setting the stage for recognition that could bolster their future opportunities in sports.